NASCAR Hall of Fame Class of 2026, Landmark Award

Busch, Gant, Hendrick Voted Into Hall’s 16th Class

 

NASCAR announced the inductees who will comprise the NASCAR Hall of Fame Class of 2026. The three-person group – the 16th since the inception of the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2010 – consists of Kurt Busch, Harry Gant and Ray Hendrick. In addition, Humpy Wheeler was named the recipient of the Landmark Award for Outstanding Contributions to NASCAR.

 

Members of the NASCAR Hall of Fame Voting Panel met today in an in-person closed session at the Charlotte Convention Center to debate and vote upon the 15 nominees for the induction class of 2026 and the five nominees for the Landmark Award.

 

The Class of 2026 was determined by votes cast by the Voting Panel, including representatives from NASCAR, the NASCAR Hall of Fame, track owners from major facilities and historic short tracks, media members, manufacturer representatives, competitors (drivers, owners, crew chiefs), recognized industry leaders, a nationwide fan vote conducted through NASCAR.com and the reigning NASCAR Cup Series champion (Joey Logano). In all, 49 votes were cast. The accounting firm of EY presided over the tabulation of the votes.

 

Busch and Gant both received 61% of the Modern Era ballot votes. Jeff Burton finished third, followed by Harry Hyde and Randy Dorton. Ray Hendrick received 31% of the Pioneer ballot votes. Bob Welborn finished second.

 

Results for the NASCAR.com Fan Vote were: Ray Hendrick (Pioneer); Kurt Busch and Harry Gant (Modern Era).

 

The two Modern Era inductees came from a group of 10 nominees that included: 

• Greg Biffle
• Neil Bonnett
• Tim Brewer
• Jeff Burton
• Kurt Busc
• Randy Dorton
• Harry Gant
• Harry Hyde
• Randy LaJoie
• Jack Sprague.

 

Nominees for the Pioneer Ballot included: 

• Jake Elder
• Ray Hendrick
• Banjo Matthews
• Larry Phillips
• Ralph Moody.

 

Nominees for the Landmark Award included:

• Alvin Hawkins
• Lesa France Kennedy
• Dr. Joseph Mattioli
• Les Richter
• Humpy Wheeler.

 

Ten nominees appeared on the Modern Era ballot, which was selected by the traditional Nominating Committee. The same committee selected the five Landmark Award nominees. The Pioneer ballot, which included five nominees whose careers began in 1966 or earlier, was selected by the Honors Committee.

 

The Class of 2026 Induction Ceremony is set for Friday, Jan. 23, 2026 at the NASCAR Hall of Fame and Charlotte Convention Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. Tickets for the Induction Ceremony will be available later this month on NASCARHall.com.

 

Class of 2026 Inductees:

Kurt Busch

Kurt Busch’s journey to NASCAR stardom began in 2000 with a Truck Series rookie season that foreshadowed greatness. With four wins and a championship runner-up finish, Busch signaled to fans and competitors alike that he would soon be a force at the top level of the sport. By 2002, Busch was already making waves in the NASCAR Cup Series. His first win came at the famed Bristol Motor Speedway, he finished third in points, and from there, his career soared to new heights. Busch’s big breakthrough came in 2004, when he captured the NASCAR Cup Series Championship, becoming the first driver to win the title under NASCAR’s ‘playoff’ system – a feat that proved both his excellence and adaptability. Busch earned 34 Cup Series wins in 776 starts, including a thrilling victory in the 2017 Daytona 500.

 

Harry Gant

Harry Gant was a man with many nicknames: “Handsome Harry” for his good looks, the “Bandit” due his long-time sponsor Skoal Bandit, “Mr. September” after his four consecutive premier series and two Xfinity series wins in September of 1991 and “High Groove Harry” because of his proficiency in taking the high line through the corner. Gant won 18 premier series races, including the Southern 500 in 1984 and 1991. The North Carolinian also registered 21 wins in the Xfinity Series. In the five seasons from 1981 through 1985, Gant finished in the top five in points four times, including a runner-up championship finish to Terry Labonte in 1984.

 

Ray Hendrick

The original “Mr. Modified,” Ray Hendrick is one of the winningest drivers of all time, amassing more than 700 modified and late model sportsman wins between 1950-88. Hendrick’s success started in his home state of Virginia, where his famous No. 11 was known to all. He won five track championships at South Boston Speedway – four modified and one late model sportsman. Despite never winning a Modified Division championship, Hendrick finished in the top 10 in the standings nine times from 1960-69. Hendrick was named one of NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers and one of NASCAR Modified’s All-Time Top 10 Drivers.

 

Landmark Award for Outstanding Contributions to NASCAR:

 

Humpy Wheeler

Humpy Wheeler’s name is synonymous with promotion and innovation. Best known for his 33-year tenure as President and General Manager of Charlotte Motor Speedway, Wheeler played a pivotal role in transforming the venue into a world-class facility that attracted a wide range of fans and corporate sponsors. Most notably, Wheeler spearheaded the construction of the iconic Turn 4 grandstands and introduced the "NASCAR Experience," which brought fans even closer to the action. Adding a new dynamic to the sport, Wheeler’s visionary leadership and creativity helped shape today’s fan experience with the introduction of dramatic pre-race ceremonies and the development of night racing at superspeedways.

 

The #NASCARHOF Voting Panel has officially gathered. 👀 pic.twitter.com/4Wu8oePnOV

— NASCAR (@NASCAR) May 20, 2025

 

source: NASCAR Hall of Fame Media

Star Nursery Continues to Boost Local Racers

The Bullring presented by Star Nursery

 

Las Vegas-based Star Nursery Garden Center has been named championship points fund sponsor of the 2024 season of The Bullring at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, contributing $35,000 across eight divisions.

 

It’s like the night before Christmas! The Bullring presented by Star Nursery 2024 season kicks off tomorrow! Gates open 5, racing at 7 PM. Autograph session, giveaways, treats for the kids and lots of racing! Tickets are $10, kids free.

Schedule: https://t.co/JBrfV2POkf pic.twitter.com/1L6SQpOE6T

— Las Vegas Motor Speedway (@LVMotorSpeedway) February 24, 2024

Star Nursery began in 1983 and operates in Southern Nevada, Southern Utah, and Northern Arizona, with 16 garden center locations and nine decorative rock yards. Not only is Star Nursery the premier garden center for all your landscaping needs, but it is also very familiar with motorsports, especially at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

 

Star Nursery was the title sponsor of the NASCAR Featherlite Southwest Series race at The Bullring in 2001 and the sponsor for Las Vegas-born Kurt Busch during his NASCAR Southwest Tour Series championship season in 1999. Its owner, Craig Keough, a West Coast Stock Car Hall of Fame member since 2020, has remained active in local and regional motorsports.

 

"Star Nursery is happy to continue its support of grass roots racing at The Bullring at Las Vegas Motor Speedway." Said Craig Keough, owner of Star Nursery Garden Centers. "This marks our 30th year as a supporter committed to racing in Las Vegas and the Southwest."

 

The Bullring provides family racing entertainment throughout the race season on several weekends, plus the July 3 Night of Fire with Fireworks. Racing returns this Saturday at The Bullring for the season's first race, with gates opening at 5 p.m. and opening ceremonies starting at 6:45 p.m.

 

 

 

source: Las Vegas Motor Speedway Media

Lionel Racing's 2022 Best Selling NASCAR Die-Cast Cars

Lionel Racing announced the top 10 best selling NASCAR die-cast cars for 2022 on Thursday. 

 

The list: 

• 1. #1-Ross Chastain Moose Fraternity Martinsville Hail Melon Chevrolet 
• 2. #45-Kurt Busch Jordan Brand Kansas Win Toyota 
• 3. #9-Chase Elliott NAPA Chevrolet 
• 4. #3-Dale Earnhardt Jr. Sun Drop Late Model 
• 5. #43-Richard Petty STP Firecracker 400 200th Win 1984 Pontiac 
• 6. #5-Kyle Larson HendrickCars.com Chevrolet 
• 7. #9-Chase Elliott Hooters Chevrolet 
• 8. #9-Chase Elliott NAPA Nashville Win Chevrolet 
• 9. #9-Chase Elliott NAPA Dover Win Chevrolet 
• 10. #2-Austin Cindric Discount Tire Daytona 500 Win Ford 

 

 

 

Regarding the to Seller

Ross Chastain began the final lap of the 2022 Xfinity 500 at Martinsville Speedway on the outside of the Championship 4 battle looking in. The window of opportunity to race for a title was quickly closing as his 10th-place standing was not going to be good enough to earn a chance to battle for the NASCAR Cup Series® championship. 

 

Instead of worrying about the closing of that championship window, Chastain drove right through it. Where drivers throughout Martinsville’s long history of NASCAR® racing had hit the brakes to make it through turns three and four, Chastain gassed up and pinned his No. 1 Moose Fraternity Chevrolet Camaro to the outside retaining wall on the final lap. 

 

With the checkered flag waving ahead, Chastain rocketed around the final corners while riding the wall. The move instantly became one of the most dramatic and clutch moments in NASCAR® history as he passed five competitors and earned just enough points to earn the ability to race for the series’ championship at Phoenix Raceway. 

 

Now, Lionel Racing presents the next addition to its Checkers or Wreckers line – a Martinsville Raced Version of Chastain’s No. 1 Moose Fraternity Chevrolet. Each die-cast in the “Checkers or Wreckers” line features replicated damage, scrapes, scuffs, and any other markings that tell the car’s story of a wild race and the moments that wowed the fans who watched. Lionel Racing artists will impeccably craft the die-cast to closely match how the car looked following the race.

source: NASCAR Media

Kurt Busch Announces Window of Hope Program Raises Over $100,000 for Levine Cancer Institute: Project PINK

 

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (Dec. 8, 2022) – After the pink window nets were on display during the NASCAR Cup Series ROVAL race at Charlotte Motor Speedway, NASCAR Cup Series Champion Kurt Busch continued focusing on giving back through his Window of Hope program. Together with the support of 41 drivers, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (Blue Cross NC) and 23XI Racing partners, Window of Hope raised more than $100,000 for the second year in a row.

 

This year’s proceeds will directly benefit the local Charlotte community through Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute’s Project PINK, which was established to increase access to life-saving mammography screenings for uninsured women in the local area. Project PINK provides “Free Mammography Days” in underserved communities where the need is highest. In partnership with Charlotte Radiology, the program’s state-of-the-art mobile breast center travels throughout the community offering free screenings in a convenient, compassionate environment. If there is a positive cancer finding during a screening, Project PINK helps navigate the patient throughout the entire treatment from diagnosis to survivorship.

 

“I am so grateful for the support that helped make Window of Hope a success by raising more than $100,000 for the second year in a row,” said Busch. “This was a team effort on all fronts, and it’s been incredible to see everyone team up together to raise awareness and funds to support the fight against breast cancer. I am thankful for the support of our 23XI partners, Blue Cross NC, Thermal Control Products, Charlotte Motor Speedway, drivers, and of course the fans. Everyone that has been impacted by breast cancer has a different story and a different experience, and it’s extra special this year knowing the funds will go right back into the local Charlotte community that we live in through Project PINK.”

 

“Caring for individuals who lack access to critical resources in our communities is at the heart of what we do every day at Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute and having the support from programs like Window of Hope is essential to our mission,” said Mellisa Wheeler, director of disparities and outreach at Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute. The funds generated during this year’s event will have a direct impact on the care and survival of many local women and for that, we are incredibly grateful.”

 

With the support of 41 drivers, @23XIRacing partners, @BlueCrossNC, @thermalcontrol, @NASCAR, @NASCAR_FDN and of course THE FANS…

We were able to raise $100,000 for the second year in a row! I cannot thank everyone enough for continuing to help make #WindowOfHope a success. pic.twitter.com/7WGVBeSj8g

— Kurt Busch (@KurtBusch) December 8, 2022

 

 To learn more about Project PINK visit www.atriumhealthfoundation.org/projectpink and to register for a screening date, call 980-442-3056 or email LCIProjectPink@atriumhealth.org.

 

---

 

source: Atrium Health Foundation https://www.atriumhealthfoundation.org/contributor-news/kurt-busch-announces-window-of-hope-program-raises-over-100000-for-levine-cancer-institute-project-pink/#prettyPhoto

Kurt Busch Addresses His #NASCAR Future

Emotional News Conference at LVMS Media Center

 

Las Vegas native Kurt Busch announced today that he is stepping away from full-time driving in the NASCAR Cup Series in 2023 during an emotional press conference in the Las Vegas Motor Speedway Media Center.

 

Busch, who continues the recovery process from a concussion he sustained in July in a race at Pocono, told the assembled media members that he will not race the remainder of this season and will step away from full-time racing with 23XII Racing in 2023.

 

“As I continue to focus on my health and work towards being cleared, I will be stepping away from full-time NASCAR Cup Series competition in 2023,” Busch said. “My long-term health is priority No. 1, and I don’t feel committing at this point to compete for a championship next year is in my best interest or the best interest of the team.”

 

From the bottom of my heart… Thank you. pic.twitter.com/SbKt3Dmv3v

— Kurt Busch (@KurtBusch) October 15, 2022

Busch said he is feeling 90-95-percent in daily activities, but has yet to be cleared by his doctors to return to the cockpit.

 

“With head movements, and torso movements with my heart rate elevated, that’s when things move quick in my peripheral,” Busch explained. “It would be like looking in the mirror, and then back towards the windshield and around at the competitors, checking the dash like just things are moving quick. And things are slowing down. Things are coming back to me. I just know I’m not 100-percent. The vestibular side is really where I’m focused on with my concussion.”

 

Busch, 44, has earned 34 Cup Series victories in his 22-year career and said he will continue his role serving as a mentor to the young drivers on the 23XI team.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed working with 23XI and this team of wonderful professionals and appreciate the support they have shown me over the last few months,” Busch said. “I will continue to work with this group with the wisdom and knowledge gained from the unofficial Ph.D. I’ve earned in this garage area. We’re building something special here and I look forward to continuing working with Bubba [Wallace]  off the track as well as Tyler Reddick,  who will join the team next year to drive the No. 45 Toyota.”

 

Busch said the timing of today’s announcement allowed him to share the news here at his home track and he said he was appreciative of all the help and support over the years from the LVMS track, starting with president Chris Powell.

 

“I’m still competitive, passionate, and I want to continue to perform at my core values, and to give back to a community that has been my life since I left Las Vegas to pursue a professional racing career over 22 years ago,” Busch said. “Next year my contributions to racing may look a little different, but I will continue to give my best to this sport. And, if I’m cleared, maybe you’ll see me at select races.”

 
 

source: Las Vegas Motor Speedway

Twitterverse

Our first win with @FordPerformance and our first Daytona 500 win.

Thank you for all the memories, @KurtBusch. pic.twitter.com/RWpoVGuaFk

— Stewart-Haas Racing (@StewartHaasRcng) October 16, 2022

Thank you, @KurtBusch. pic.twitter.com/UkCTV37aPW

— NASCAR on NBC (@NASCARonNBC) October 15, 2022

Hey @KurtBusch thanks for all you did for our team @CGRTeams over the years together. You'll always be a Champion and a Winner and #ilikewinners. Godspeed in the next step of your career!

— Chip Ganassi (@GanassiChip) October 15, 2022

Takeaways:

Kurt Busch will focus on getting back to 100 percent in 2023, says he's 90-95. This isn't a retirement and he wants to compete. There are races in and out of NASCAR he wants to race in the future. He wants to do TV work.

Tyler Reddick will drive the 45 next year.

— Matt Weaver (@MattWeaverRA) October 15, 2022

Kurt Busch's announcement marks the end of an era.

He's the last full-time @NASCAR Cup Series driver to run a Cup race against Dale Earnhardt. pic.twitter.com/KTdt8F3oPs

— NASCAR on NBC (@NASCARonNBC) October 15, 2022

Denny Hamlin on Kurt Busch’s decision to not race full time next year and how Busch has handled the last few months trying to recover from a concussion. pic.twitter.com/ykTEQU5lGg

— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) October 15, 2022

Thank you, @KurtBusch. pic.twitter.com/yDKGWzW41H

— Ross Chastain (@RossChastain) October 15, 2022

I’ve always enjoyed watching @KurtBusch. One of the best race car drivers of my lifetime. I feel very fortunate I’ve gotten to know him and work with him, and I’m excited for that to continue in the future. Congrats on everything you’ve accomplished, Kurt! #TeamToyota https://t.co/bvC6o8183w

— Christopher Bell (@CBellRacing) October 16, 2022

I appreciate how @KurtBusch made every team he went to more productive. Not many drivers could do that. Hell of a talent. Excited to see what he does from here as he steps away from full time driving.

— Dale Earnhardt Jr. (@DaleJr) October 15, 2022

I don’t think anyone has done more in @NASCAR than @KurtBusch. An experience in this sport he hasn’t been in, doesn’t exist. Survived highs, lows, and everything in between. #Champion https://t.co/pLpJBZKiIA

— Clint Bowyer (@ClintBowyer) October 15, 2022

.@RFKRacing & @KurtBusch won @roushyates Engines' first @NASCAR Cup Championship in 2004. At @DAYTONA, Kurt won our 5th #DAYTONA500 as an engine builder. Kurt has delivered success for each manufacturer in our sport. Hope to see you on the race track again soon, Kurt! #NASCAR pic.twitter.com/DKIeFXahRZ

— Doug Yates (@Yates_Doug) October 15, 2022

We’ve had our ups and downs together.
I’m thankful for the journey and blessing to get to race with Kurt.

Wish you the best in the next chapter of your life @KurtBusch 😊👍🏻 https://t.co/omJGpYsorf

— Brad Keselowski (@keselowski) October 15, 2022

To forge a 20 year career as a top talent, in America's top stock car series, is something reserved not only for the very best, but for the very special.

Congrats on an amazing run @KurtBusch - thank you for following your dreams to @NASCAR

— Justin Marks (@JustinMarksTH) October 15, 2022

What a great career you have had my amigo, it has been a pleasure racing against you over the last few years. I wish you best of luck for the future!! @KurtBusch pic.twitter.com/uCw5wSP4nP

— Daniel Suárez (@Daniel_SuarezG) October 15, 2022

Kurt Busch Sidelined Again at Indianapolis

Is the Next Gen Car Safe?

 

After last weekend’s crash at Pocono Raceway, Kurt Busch will miss his second consecutive race this weekend at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course.

 

 Kurt Busch spins on a turn in the final qualifying run for the pole at
Pocono Raceway, slamming into the wall and causing major rear damage.

 

 

Busch’s crash in Saturday’s qualifying session at Pocono left him with concussion-like symptoms that prevented him from being medically cleared to compete. After being evaluated before Sunday’s Verizon 200 at the Brickyard (2:30 p.m. ET, NBC, NBC Sports App, IMS Radio and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio), Busch was not cleared to participate in this weekend’s events.

 

Some drivers told NBC Sports last month that they felt harder impacts this year with the Next Gen car than with the previous car. More drivers spoke up about the matter Saturday at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

 

Kevin Harvick questions how much NASCAR is prioritizing safety in light of driver complaints about feeling harder impacts this year and Kurt Busch missing his second consecutive race due to concussion-like symptoms.

 

“The concerns that the drivers have just haven’t seemed to resonate into a really, really quick response into trying to make that better,” Harvick said. “That’s concerning. I know that everybody will tell you that they’re working on it.

 

“I don’t think they understand the extent of it and actually the extent of how bad it is when you hit stuff. … I don’t think anybody really understands, except for the drivers that have crashed into something, the violence that comes in the car. It doesn’t seem to be a high enough priority to me.”

 

John Patalak, managing director of safety engineering for NASCAR, told NBC Sports earlier this month that crash data this year looks similar to past years. Drivers acknowledge that but say they are feeling the impacts more.

 

Daniel Suarez remains confident that NASCAR will find solutions for the drivers.

 

“It is a bit concerning that the impact that our friend Kurt Busch had in Pocono had this kind of results,” Suarez said. “The impact didn’t look that hard, but NASCAR has a very big group of smart people working on that, and I’m sure they’re going to find answers to the questions we have.”

 

Click Here to Read the Complete Article

 

The team's official statement on the status of @KurtBusch. pic.twitter.com/YEHt7Pf7jJ

— 23XI Racing (@23XIRacing) July 27, 2022

pic.twitter.com/ua9gyHOQ7m

— Kurt Busch (@KurtBusch) July 27, 2022

 

source: NASCAR NBCSports

Kurt Busch Eyes Strong Finish at Sunday’s Ambetter 301

 

With seven races remaining in the NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) season, Kurt Busch is comfortably in the Playoffs by virtue of a win at Kansas and a consistent season overall for his 23XI Racing team. Now, the three-time winner at New Hampshire Motor Speedway (NHMS) turns his attention to building momentum ahead of the post season, beginning with Sunday’s Ambetter 301.

 

This weekend marks Busch’s 39th start at “The Magic Mile,” where he has earned 15 top- 10s, eight top-fives and three wins on his career.

 

The 45 has a whole new look. Excited to have @SIRIUSXM on board this weekend at the magic mile! @ToyotaRacing #TeamToyota pic.twitter.com/s3FgkCD6L4

— Kurt Busch (@KurtBusch) July 14, 2022

 

Despite his success at the 1.058-mile track, Busch said there are a lot of different challenges for drivers to overcome in order to make their way to victory lane.

 

“It’s mainly the corner entry and the braking zones at New Hampshire,” he said. “And then, turn three seems to get rougher and rougher each year, just with settling or track aging. It makes it a challenge to carve through there. If you get that right, that usually leads to a good day.”

 

Sunday’s Ambetter 301 marks the debut of NASCAR’s radically-redesigned NCS car at NHMS. Busch recognizes that, despite his past success at NASCAR’s only New England track, teams will be starting from scratch with their notes, which should provide plenty of action on the track as they race to adjust to the challenge of the NextGen car.

 

“As a race unfolds, there are so many challenges with this new car you’ve got to be ready to roll and be quick on your feet,” he said. “The NextGen car, it doesn’t like to be sideways. As soon as you step her out, she’s gone. The old car, you were rewarded with how far you could get her sideways because of the side force and the aero side. It’s a different feel, and it’s been a big challenge this year.”

 

“You’ve just got to stay consistent. You just have to run with the mindset of, ‘we’ve got to be a fifth-place car to put ourselves in position to win, but yet we can’t push too hard to be fifth.’ This car just has that razorblade edge.”

 

If Busch’s 23XI Racing team finds a way to ride that razor’s edge to victory lane on Sunday, he’ll join Kevin Harvick and Jeff Burton as the winningest NCS drivers in NHMS history. Perhaps more importantly in his eyes, Busch said a strong run at the Ambetter 301 would provide his team with crucial information ahead of the season finale at Phoenix, a similar style track that will ultimately decide this season’s NCS championship.

 

“Back in the day with the September race (at NHMS), it was the door to a championship run,” he said. “Now you can use it as a sister racetrack to Phoenix. Phoenix is the championship race, and New Hampshire is the same style track – it’s a flat, one-mile track. It’s an important, sneaky race because of how you can use it as prep for a championship run.”

 

source: New Hampshire Motor Speedway

Racing Wives star Ashley Busch files for divorce from NASCAR racer Kurt Busch

 

 

NASCAR racer Kurt Busch and Ashley Busch are getting a divorce, according to court documents obtained by TMZ Sports.

 

In a statement obtained by TMZ, Kurt Busch said, “I am heartbroken to confirm that my wife Ashley and I are working to dissolve our marriage. Divorce is a personal and private matter and I hope our privacy will be respected.”

 

Kurt Busch, from Mooresville, North Carolina, drives for 23XI Racing. According to NASCAR, he has 34 career wins. Virginia-native Ashley Busch, formerly Ashley Van Metre, is a lifelong polo player and was named a global brand ambassador for the U.S. Polo Association in 2017. The two starred together on the 2019 reality TV show Racing Wives.

 

The two met in 2015 and married in 2016. They do not have any children.

 

TMZ reports that Ashley Busch filed for the divorce on May 9 in Florida. In the documents, she says that Kurt “committed a tortious act” and that their marriage is “irretrievably broken.” She says that problems arose in the relationship in April, and Kurt Busch allegedly cut her off from their joint bank accounts and cards.

 

As per the urban dictionary, a ‘tort’ is a wrongful act or conduct that violates someone’s rights and causes them suffering. A person who engages in this destructive behaviour has committed a “tortious act,” for which they may be held legally accountable.

 

Ashley has reportedly accused Kurt of barring access to their joint bank accounts and credit cards last month, as well as asking her to leave the family home starting in early June, according to TMZ.

 

The documents say that the couple had a prenuptial agreement.

 

 

source: My Fox 8

NASCAR and ARCA Race Weekend Recap (Kansas)

Winners: Kurt Busch (Cup); Zane Smith (Trucks) and Nick Sanchez 

 

NASCAR Cup

Kurt Busch Charges to Dramatic Win

 

In an event fraught with pit road mistakes and mechanical issues, Kurt Busch ran an impeccable race.

 

In an intensely competitive run to the finish of Sunday’s AdventHealth 400 at Kansas Speedway, Busch nosed past leader Kyle Larson at the finish line on Lap 259 of 267 and completed the pass two corners later off Turn 2, as Larson scraped the outside wall.

 

Seven laps later, Busch’s No. 45 23XI Racing Toyota crossed the finish line 1.413 seconds ahead of Larson to win for the first time at Kansas, the first time this season and the 34th time in his career. Busch has now won NASCAR Cup races for five different car owners and with four different manufacturers.

 

“If I can get one Kyle, I can get both,” said an elated Busch, who passed brother Kyle Busch, the third-place finisher, 11 circuits after a restart on Lap 235.

 

With 21 laps left Busch began his pursuit of Larson, making up ground as traffic became a factor. On Lap 259 Busch pulled even to the inside of Larson, as the drivers raced side-by-side from the backstretch to the finish line, with Busch inches ahead at the stripe.

 

Busch widened his advantage through the first two corners of Lap 260 and cleared the No. 5 Chevrolet as Larson brushed the wall near the exit of Turn 2.

 

“It’s all about teamwork,” Busch said. “I don’t do this alone, and the way that Toyota’s helped us, JGR (Joe Gibbs Racing)… My little brother has been so important, just on the family side of ‘Hey, you’ve got to get through these steps.’

 

“But this is 23XI. This is our first win with the 45 car, and with Jordan Brand on the hood, I felt like I had to play like the GOAT, race like the GOAT. I had to beat the Kyles. I beat both.”

 

This was a bucket list win. Can’t put into words how much this means. pic.twitter.com/Wl3jN3fkfw

— Kurt Busch (@KurtBusch) May 16, 2022

Pole: Christopher Bell

Click Here for Race Results

 

Next Race: The Cup Series will return on May 22 for the NASCAR All-Star Race at Texas Motor Speedway. 

 

 

NASCAR Xfinity

The NASCAR Xfinity Series Had an Off-Week.

Next Race: The Xfinity Series will return on May 21 for the SRS Distribution 250 at Texas Motor Speedway. 

 

 

NASCAR Trucks

Zane Smith Cruises to Truck Series Win

 

Zane Smith put on a dominant display in the Hearth of America 200. Smith outlasted a late challenge from Ty Majeski to capture his third NASCAR Camping World Truck Series win of the season and the sixth of his career.

 

“It was really just an unbelievable truck,” Smith said. “So dang cool. That was one of my easier ones I’ve ever had to win, but that late-race restart scared me a little bit.”

 

Sooo last night… great truck, great team & great execution. Win #3 of the year! I ❤️ you @kansasspeedway. pic.twitter.com/5EnMs4wkZz

— Zane Smith (@zanesmith77) May 15, 2022

Pole: John Hunter Nemechek

Click Here for Race Results

 

Next Race: The Truck Series will return on May 20 for the SpeedyCash.com 220 at Texas Motor Speedway. 

 

 

ARCA

Another Win for Nick Sanchez Moves Him into a Tie for the ARCA Points Lead

 

Nick Sanchez won the Dutch Boy 150 by holding off a hard charging Rajah Carruth in the final laps. After picking up his first ARCA Menards Series victory at Kansas Speedway last October, Sanchez took advantage of a late-race accident between Corey Heim and Drew Dollar  to collect the third win of his budding career.

 

“I think (Dollar) was just pushing a little too hard there at the bottom and obviously side force here is everything,” Sanchez said. “(Heim) took it off, and they both hit the wall. I saw it coming. (Dollar) started off pretty free, and I was able to stay at the bottom and capitalize on his mistakes.”

 

“It’s all momentum, and your car has to let you keep up momentum as much as possible,” he said.

 

If you missed the Dutch Boy 150 on Saturday, it was a monster result for #TeamChevy at the @kansasspeedway. @nicksanchez080 grabbed the win and @rajahcaruth_ brought home P2 to secure a 1-2 finish. pic.twitter.com/OVmILkHtuz

— Chevrolet Motorsports (@TeamChevy) May 16, 2022

Pole: Corey Heim

Click Here for Race Results

 

Next Race: The ARCA Series will return on 05/27/2022 for the General Tire 150 at Charlotte Motor Speedway. 

 

 

Superstar Racing Experience

Next Race: The SRX Series will return on 06/18/2022 for the SRX Series Season Opener at Five Flags Speedway.

 

source: NASCAR Media

Welcome to the #NASCAR World Lennix Key

Congratulations Kyle, Samantha, and Brexton

 

• Lennix Key Busch
• May 10, 2022
• 5:12 am
• 6 lbs 1 oz 20 in

 

Kyle and his wife Samantha welcomed their second child via surrogate. They named her Lennix Key.

 

On Tuesday, the pair wrote on Instagram, “We're beyond overjoyed that God has blessed us with our beautiful girl. Our tiny little peanut has a head full of crazy hair and a big brother waiting at home who can't wait to meet her!!!”

 

“Thank you everyone who has followed our journey and prayed along side of us. Our hearts are bursting with happiness,” they continued, using the hashtags #ivfjourney and #rainbowbaby.

 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Samantha Busch (@samanthabusch)

 

 

Lennix Key Busch
May 10, 2022
5:12 am
6.1 oz 20 in

By the grace of God our sweet baby girl is here!

Thank you to everyone who has followed our journey and prayed along side of us. Our hearts are bursting with happiness 💕 #GirlDad pic.twitter.com/HBVAxglQSM

— Kyle Busch (@KyleBusch) May 11, 2022

 

 

Congrats mom and dad! She is perfect. Uncle Kurt is so excited to meet baby girl. (Kurt Busch)

 

 

My Baby Sister Lennix is home!! 😍 We love our little Lady so much already! 🥰 pic.twitter.com/PRtpT24ZIK

— Brexton Busch (@brextonbusch) May 11, 2022

 

source: NASCAR Media

Kurt Busch to Celebrate Milestone 20th Anniversary

First NASCAR Cup Series Victory

Kurt Busch scored his breakthrough NASCAR Cup Series victory at
Bristol Motor Speedway during the 2002 Food City 500.

 

When Kurt Busch is asked about all of his success at Bristol Motor Speedway, he always pauses and has a slight smile when he thinks back to the first time he ever jumped into a NASCAR Cup Series machine around the all-concrete high-banked bullring where so much NASCAR history has unfolded.

 

You see, Busch’s success at Bristol was earned through the school of hard knocks in his first two visits to the ultra-challenging short track nestled in the mountains of Eastern Tennessee. It wasn’t instant.

 

This season Busch is celebrating the milestone 20th anniversary of his first Cup Series victory, which came at BMS back in 2002. He is part of an exclusive fraternity of NASCAR hall of famers who tamed Bristol to get that first ‘W’ on their resumes. That short list also includes Dale Earnhardt Sr., Rusty Wallace, Ernie Irvan and Elliott Sadler.

 

Before Busch mastered the World’s Fastest Half-Mile that Sunday afternoon in the Food City 500 at the controls of the No. 97 machine for Roush Racing, he used his first two starts at Bristol during his rookie season in 2001 to “get adjusted” to a short track that races like a superspeedway. He finished 42nd in his first ever Bristol start and then posted a 25th place effort in his second BMS start.

 

Busch is proud to have overcome that rough introduction to The Last Great Colosseum and graduate as a highly-decorated member of the elite group of drivers who conquered Bristol to earn their breakthrough victory on the NASCAR Cup Series.

 

"Wow, it's hard to imagine that it's been 20 years since my win at Bristol," Busch said recently. "It's been a great ride. I was so intimidated my first time at Bristol, I feel like I wrecked five times in the first 100 laps. Then I was able to come back my second year in about my 50th race and win the spring race there."

 

After getting that first BMS win, Busch unlocked the Bristol secret that only a handful of drivers have discovered over the years. It's a powerful secret that has allowed drivers to score multiple victories, and a few, like Busch, to earn consecutive wins at the high-banked oval. Since 2002, Busch has become one of Bristol’s winningest drivers with six total victories.

 

Busch says he remembers an amazing feeling after holding off Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Cup veterans Jimmy Spencer and Ricky Rudd to take that win in 2002. He said it was like reaching the top of Mount Everest.

 

"What I remember so vividly was that Jack Roush came up to me after practice and said the car looked really good on exit of turn four," Busch recalled. "That's what I was telling my crew chief Jimmy Fennig, is that my car is really dialed in and feels great on the exit of turn four. That's the spot where I've watched Rusty Wallace, Darrell Waltrip, Dale Sr. and all of the big names win at Bristol, because their car would really carve off of turn four. It was a great battle with Jimmy Spencer; I moved him out of the way, but I wasn't going to take no for an answer that day. It was really cool to get my first win at Bristol."

 

Busch sits sixth on the impressive list of Bristol’s all-time Cup winners, behind:

1. Waltrip (12)
2. Earnhardt Sr. (9)
3. Wallace (9)
4. Cale Yarborough (9)
5. Kyle Busch (8).

Converting some fans 😉 pic.twitter.com/JX9jhEkTFv

— Kurt Busch (@KurtBusch) April 9, 2022

The Las Vegas native will be going after lucky Bristol win number seven when the Cup Series returns for the Food City Dirt Race, April 15-17. This time around, Busch will be driving the No. 45 machine for 23XI Racing. Busch is teammates with Bubba Wallace, who pilots the No. 23 for the two-car team that is owned by NBA legend Michael Jordan and fellow Cup star Denny Hamlin.

 

In last year’s historic Food City Dirt Race, the first dirt race for the Cup Series in more than 50 years, Busch finished 16th after starting 28th. So far this season Busch has had a strong start to the season, posting a third place finish at Atlanta, fifth place effort at Phoenix and an eighth place showing in Southern California.

 

Busch’s most recent Cup victory at Bristol during the Bass Pro Shops Night Race in 2018 was highly ranked on fan polls and has been called an “Instant Classic” by many racing historians. That night Busch emerged the winner in an explosive race that featured a bunch of crashes and a big mix of race leaders. He eventually held off Kyle Larson, Chase Elliott, Joey Logano and Clint Bowyer to take the checkered flag.

 

“This track brings out the best in everybody,” Busch said after the 2018 win. “Just to come here and feel that Saturday night atmosphere and racing under the lights, it brings you back to your roots… When you come to the 'Holy Grail of Short Tracks,' you want to win it.”

 

The Food City Dirt Race weekend starts on Good Friday with Bush’s Beans Practice Day that will have both the NASCAR Cup Series and NASCAR Camping World Truck Series machines on track for two 50-minute practice sessions during the afternoon.

 

On Saturday, Bush’s Beans Qualifying will be held for both Cup and Truck competitors with each series participating in four blind-draw 15-lap qualifying heat races to set the fields for the main races. The Pinty’s Truck Race on Dirt will follow Bush’s Beans Qualifying with an 8 p.m. (ET) start (FS1, MRN Radio, Sirius XM NASCAR Radio).

 

The green flag for the Food City Dirt Race is scheduled to drop at 7 p.m. (FOX, PRN Radio and Sirius XM NASCAR Radio) on Easter Sunday evening.

 

 

source: Bristol Motor Speedway

NASCAR Cup Series at Newly Redesigned AMS

Refreshed and Reconfigured Atlanta Motor Speedway awaits the NASCAR Cup Series

 

It took construction crews 163 days, but the newly redesigned Atlanta Motor Speedway awaits the NASCAR Cup Series for this Sunday’s (March 20) Folds of Honor QuikTrip 500 on FOX, PRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio at 3 p.m. ET, the fifth race of the 2022 season.

 

We love the hustle and bustle in the pits. #FOHQT500 | #fansfirst pic.twitter.com/kCgdy1Ynmb

— Atlanta Motor Speedway (@amsupdates) March 20, 2022

 

Not long after Kurt Busch took the checkered flag last July at Atlanta Motor Speedway, crews began dismantling the track in preparation for its first repave since 1997. The reconfiguration produced 28-degrees of banking in every corner of the 1.54-mile speedway, making Atlanta the steepest intermediate track on the NASCAR schedule.

 

“Our goal all along for the reconfiguration of Atlanta Motor Speedway has been to create a first-of-its-kind experience on the NASCAR circuit and we’ve done just that,” said AMS Executive Vice President and General Manager Brandon Hutchison. “Never before has NASCAR raced on an intermediate track like ours with 28 degrees of banking, much less with superspeedway cars. Both will happen for the first time in Atlanta this year.”

 

In addition to the steeper turns, over the course of the five months of transformation the changes to the speedway include a new drainage technology and brand-new asphalt.

 

All the action begins at Atlanta for the NASCAR Cup Series this Friday, March 18 with 50 minutes of practice from 5:05-5:55 p.m. ET and the Busch Light Pole Qualifying will be held on Saturday, March 19 from 12:30-1:50 p.m. ET and both will be televised on FS1.

 

There are many unknowns on how this weekend's racing will play out, but all indications are pointing to superspeedway-style racing that has been seen at Daytona and Talladega.

 

“In NASCAR we have our Daytona and Talladega style draft and those are on 2.5- and 2.66-mile tracks,” NASCAR driver and four-time Atlanta winner Kurt Busch said during testing at Atlanta back in January. “This is a mile-and-a-half. Things are going to be moving quicker. You’re going to be digesting things much faster and you’re going to have that Daytona and Talladega style feel here at a mile-and-a-half.”

That new track smell and feel. Good job @amsupdates. Send it! pic.twitter.com/21tYJtYIIk

— Kurt Busch (@KurtBusch) January 5, 2022

 

Click Here for Entry List

 

Qualifying was cancelled due to weather. NASCAR used a mathematical formula to set the starting lineup for a race.

 

Click Here for Starting Line Up

 

source: NASCAR Media

Will There Be a Daytona 500 Repeat Winner?

Are you ready for the return of the NASCAR Cup Series? The Daytona 500 is a 500-mile-long NASCAR Cup Series race held annually at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida. 

 

Daytona International Speedway is 2.5 miles (4 km) long and a 500-mile race requires 200 laps to complete. The 2020 running is the longest Daytona 500 contested, lasting 209 laps/522.5 miles. 

 

Will there be a repeat winner today or will a newbie step into Victory Lane? 

 

Below is the list of Daytona Winner to help you decide.

 

Daytona International Speedway is 2.5 miles long

 

Winners of the Daytona 500
Year	No.	Driver	Team
2021	34	Michael McDowell	Front Row Motorsports
2020	11	Denny Hamlin (3)	Joe Gibbs Racing (4)
2019	11	Denny Hamlin (2)	Joe Gibbs Racing (3)
2018	3	Austin Dillon	Richard Childress Racing (3)
2017	41	Kurt Busch	Stewart-Haas Racing
2016	11	Denny Hamlin	Joe Gibbs Racing (2)
2015	22	Joey Logano	Team Penske (2)
2014	88	Dale Earnhardt Jr. (2)	Hendrick Motorsports (8)
2013	48	Jimmie Johnson (2)	Hendrick Motorsports (7)
2012	17	Matt Kenseth (2)	Roush Fenway Racing (2)
2011	21	Trevor Bayne	Wood Brothers Racing (5)
2010	1	Jamie McMurray	Earnhardt Ganassi Racing
2009	17	Matt Kenseth	Roush Fenway Racing
2008	12	Ryan Newman	Penske Racing
2007	29	Kevin Harvick	Richard Childress Racing (2)
2006	48	Jimmie Johnson	Hendrick Motorsports (6)
2005	24	Jeff Gordon (3)	Hendrick Motorsports (5)
2004	8	Dale Earnhardt Jr.	Dale Earnhardt, Inc. (3)
2003	15	Michael Waltrip (2)	Dale Earnhardt, Inc. (2)
2002	22	Ward Burton	Bill Davis Racing
2001	15	Michael Waltrip	Dale Earnhardt, Inc.
2000	88	Dale Jarrett (3)	Robert Yates Racing (3)
1999	24	Jeff Gordon (2)	Hendrick Motorsports (4)
1998	3	Dale Earnhardt	Richard Childress Racing
1997	24	Jeff Gordon	Hendrick Motorsports (3)
1996	88	Dale Jarrett (2)	Robert Yates Racing (2)
1995	4	Sterling Marlin (2)	Morgan-McClure Mpts (3)
1994	4	Sterling Marlin	Morgan-McClure Mpts (2)
1993	18	Dale Jarrett	Joe Gibbs Racing
1992	28	Davey Allison	Robert Yates Racing
1991	4	Ernie Irvan	Morgan-McClure Motorsports
1990	10	Derrike Cope	Whitcomb Racing
1989	17	Darrell Waltrip	Hendrick Motorsports (2)
1988	12	Bobby Allison (3)	Stavola Brothers Racing
1987	9	Bill Elliott (2)	Melling Racing (2)
1986	5	Geoffrey Bodine	Hendrick Motorsports
1985	9	Bill Elliott	Melling Racing
1984	28	Cale Yarborough (4)	Ranier-Lundy (3)
1983	28	Cale Yarborough (3)	Ranier-Lundy (2)
1982	88	Bobby Allison (2)	DiGard Motorsports
1981	43	Richard Petty (7)	Petty Enterprises (9)
1980	28	Buddy Baker	Ranier-Lundy
1979	43	Richard Petty (6)	Petty Enterprises (8)
1978	15	Bobby Allison	Bud Moore Engineering
1977	11	Cale Yarborough (2)	Junior Johnson & Assoc. (2)
1976	21	David Pearson	Wood Brothers Racing (4)
1975	72	Benny Parsons	L.G. DeWitt
1974	43	Richard Petty (5)	Petty Enterprises (7)
1973	43	Richard Petty (4)	Petty Enterprises (6)
1972	21	A. J. Foyt	Wood Brothers Racing (3)
1971	43	Richard Petty (3)	Petty Enterprises (5)
1970	40	Pete Hamilton	Petty Enterprises (4)
1969	98	LeeRoy Yarbrough	Junior Johnson & Associates
1968	21	Cale Yarborough	Wood Brothers Racing (2)
1967	11	Mario Andretti†	Holman-Moody (2)
1966	43	Richard Petty (2)	Petty Enterprises (3)
1965	28	Fred Lorenzen	Holman-Moody
1964	43	Richard Petty	Petty Enterprises (2)
1963	21	Tiny Lund	Wood Brothers Racing
1962	22	Fireball Roberts	Jim Stephens
1961	20	Marvin Panch	Smokey Yunick
1960	27	Junior Johnson	John Masoni
1959	42	Lee Petty	Petty Enterprises

 (number) indicates how many Daytona 500 wins that driver has. 

by NASCAR Race Mom